Thursday’s opening round of the British Open had a bit of an Old-Timer’s Day feel with Phil Mickelson and Lee Westwood sharing the early lead at various points. And then there was the man who hit the first shot at Royal Portrush.

That would be Padraig Harrington, who had the honour of striking the opening tee shot. And setting his alarm clock really, really early for the occasion.

Although the three-time major champ said after he hates “the idea of being ceremonial,” the moment hit him in the feels more than expected.

Following his round, Harrington was asked about getting emotional—specifically, when was the last time he shed some tears. And he provided a hilarious response. Here’s the entire exchange.

Q. When was the last time you had an emotional reaction like that on the golf course or felt maybe a tear welling up a little bit?

PADRAIG HARRINGTON: Usually when I’m watching a movie on an airplane. Does everybody not well up on airplanes? I think airplanes do that to me. Could be a comedy or something like that. It doesn’t have to be that serious. (Laughter).

Q. But on the golf course?

PADRAIG HARRINGTON: I wouldn’t say I get too emotional, not like that, no. It was definitely—it felt like they were there for me, giving me a clap, yeah. I expected the nerves; I didn’t expect that. So I did have to adjust myself for that.

Q. It was special.

PADRAIG HARRINGTON: Yeah, it was very special, I’ve got to say. It’s a great honour to do it, as I said. I really hate the idea of being ceremonial, but I was prepared to take that to do it because it was here. I’m glad I did.

So good. This is as steely of a competitor as they come, but even Harrington, who turns 54 next month, knows there are only so many more times he’ll get to tee it up at his favourite golf tournament.

And we think Paddy might be onto something here. Who hasn’t cried watching a movie on an airplane? “Crazy, Stupid, Love” gets me every time. Am I right? No? Well, forget I said that then . . . I was just kidding . . .

Anyway, Harrington’s first-round score of 75 wasn’t quite as special, but he’ll always have that cool moment. And if he misses the cut, there will be plenty of movies to have another cry to on his flight home.

Follow Golf Digest Middle East on social media

Instagram

X

Facebook

YouTube

Main Image: Oisin Keniry/R&A